Is there a direct bus?

No, there is no direct bus service between these two points.

How long is the train?

The train journey from Stratford to Chelmsford is about 30 minutes.

Is parking expensive?

Parking in Chelmsford city center is reasonably priced for a city.

Can I use a contactless card?

Yes, contactless is accepted on the train and for parking.

Is it a good day trip?

Yes, Chelmsford offers plenty of history and shopping for a day out.

Buckhurst Hill

Chelmsford

Train Driving

Buckhurst Hill to Chelmsford

Updated: 30 May 2026

The journey from Buckhurst Hill to Chelmsford covers approximately 20 miles. The most efficient way to travel is by driving via the M11 and A414, which takes about 40-50 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the Central Line to Stratford and switch to the Greater Anglia train service to Chelmsford. Chelmsford is the county town of Essex and offers a vibrant city center. This route is a major artery for commuters traveling between the outskirts of London and the heart of Essex.

Total Distance: Driving distance 32 km, straight-line air distance 26 km.

Fastest Way

Driving is generally faster, provided there are no major delays on the M11.

Cheapest Way

Driving is often cheaper if traveling with multiple passengers.

Compare Buckhurst Hill to Chelmsford Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	55 minutes	45 minutes
Avg Price	12.00 GBP	8.00 GBP fuel
Operator	Greater Anglia	Personal Vehicle
Route	Central Line to Stratford, then Greater Anglia to Chelmsford.	Via M11 and A414.
Tip	Book tickets in advance for cheaper fares.	The M11 can be busy; check for accidents before departing.

Travel Tips

Train Tickets
Use the Trainline app to find the best fares for your journey.
M11 Traffic
Check the Highways England website for live traffic updates on the M11.
Parking
Use the city center car parks for easy access to shops and restaurants.
Station Access
Chelmsford station is very busy; allow extra time during peak hours.
City Center
Chelmsford is very walkable; once you arrive, you won't need a car.

Safety Tips

Train Safety
Keep your belongings secure on the train, especially during busy periods.
Driving
Stay alert on the A414, which can be winding and busy.
Night Safety
The city center is well-lit, but stick to main streets at night.
Emergency
Chelmsford has a well-equipped hospital if needed.